October 22, 2025

For nearly 30 years, Peter Haskell’s voice was a familiar one across New York. As a reporter for WCBS Newsradio 880, he covered some of the region’s most defining moments.

When a rare vocal disorder forced Peter to step away from the microphone, it brought an unexpected crossroads. What followed was a shift toward gratitude, purpose, and a renewed belief in the power of stories and kindness.

Today, Peter continues his lifelong calling to tell meaningful stories through his work with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and as an adjunct professor of journalism at Fordham University.

In this episode, we covered:

• How Peter built a lifelong career in broadcast journalism
  
• What covering 9/11 taught him about humanity and resilience
  
• The experience of living with spasmodic dysphonia
  
• How he found direction and meaning beyond his career in radio
• The lessons he’s carried into teaching and storytelling today
• Why kindness is the foundation of his personal philosophy

Resources:

You can learn more at dysphonia.org.

About Peter: 

Peter Haskell spent his career as a radio reporter, including nearly 30 years at WCBS Newsradio 880 in New York City, one of the most respected stations in the country.  After winning dozens of awards, his career was ended by a rare vocal disorder, spasmodic dysphonia.  He now works in Marketing/Communications at the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, teaches journalism at Fordham University and advocates for Dysphonia International, the preeminent organization for those with vocal conditions.